1. The Writing Was on the Wall

TSN first reported Wednesday night that Tortorella’s firing was a day away, leading to a day of speculation that the move was inevitable. The Canucks later confirmed Tortorella and Sullivan’s firings in a tweet.

2. He Was One Year Into a 5-Year-Deal

3. Tortorella Had Been Suspended Earlier This Season

The coach was suspended for 15 games in January after charging at the Calgary Flames locker room during the first intermission of a game marred by fights, including a full-line brawl immediately after the opening faceoff.

Watch video above of the incident in question and video below of Tortorella discussing the game in his postgame news conference.

4. The Canucks Missed the Playoffs

Goalie Jacob Markstrom reaches out for a puck April 13 against the Calgary Flames. (Getty)

Vancouver finished a disappointing 36-35-11, finishing fifth in the Pacific Division and missing the playoffs.

5. GM Mike Gillis Had Already Been Fired

Gillis, who hired Tortorella was fired immediately after the end of the regular season, leaving Tortorella’s fate in the hands of Trevor Linden.

Watch the video above from Sportsnet’s “Hockey Central” for analysis of Gillis’ firing.